J.M. (Mike) McEniry
On Saturday, October 5, 2019, J.M. (Mike) McEniry, loving father, husband, and friend to many, passed away peacefully with loved ones at his side at the age of 87.
Mike was born on April 27th, 1932, in Seattle, WA to James Arthur and Betty Braga McEniry. He attended Garfield High School and proudly served as a pilot in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Major in 1976. He married Darlene L. Gore in 1959 and together they had two children. He remarried to the love of his life, Peggy L. Robinson in 1973 and gained three more children.
He excelled at many passions in his life, including flying, car racing, sailing, and writing. However, the one that rose above all others was music. An accomplished jazz vibist, he played gigs with his band, The Chamber Jazz Trio, right up until the last few weeks of his life. Larger than life in both personality and actions, Mike lived a very full 87 years. His infectious smile and gentle blue eyes will be fiercely missed by those that had the honor of knowing and loving him.
Mike was preceded in death by his daughter, Katherine Dale McEniry and wife of 35 years, Peggy Lou McEniry. He is survived by his wife Catherine Anne Duesenberg-McEniry, sister Patricia Adel Love, his four children Debi, Woody, Scott, and Erik, his three grandchildren Anthony, Sidne, and Liam, and his two greatgrandchildren Noah and Natalie.
A Celebration of Life will be held this coming spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
8 Responses to “J.M. (Mike) McEniry”
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Mike was one of a kind, a dear friend and fellow veteran. He had an infectious laugh and sense of humor, often at his own expense. He loved his family and spoke of them every time we met. He’s in a better place now playing his vibes and making friends. May he rest in peace. I will always remember him and smile.
Michael was a customer and great friend. For the last few years I would visit him with a bottle of Scotch between Thanksgiving and Christmas and we would tell flying lies over a couple of drinks.
I only found of his passing by trying to contact him for this years get-together. I’ll miss him.
Bill Capron
Mike and I first got together in 1969, and he flew as my proverbial Wingman as salesman, marketeer, manager pilot and corporate officer. He personally made many a payroll at Robertson Aircraft and later at Raisbeck Engineering. He finally succumbed to his first love of music in 1989, and went on to cut many a disc right up to his ultimate departure last October. God bless you James Michael – enjoy your eternal peace. James Raisbeck.
I was extremely saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. Mike was a mentor to me in many ways and will always remain in my heart. We had many exceptional times together – some great fun and some challenging – but what will always stay with me was Mike’s force of will and determination to make me be the best I could be and for this I am eternally grateful. I will miss you my friend and I hope you’re swingin’ like a bear in the stars ……
Mike and I first met as Naval Aviation Cadets and our friendship has survived for over 65 years. A great pilot, a great friend and a true wingman. Just prior to getting our wings we were on a cross country flight to St. Louis. I flamed out and Mike found me and remained on my wing until I was finally able to land. Just being able to look out and see him beside me giving a thumbs up gave me the confidence to continue. I will miss my buddy. I will miss my wingman! Blue skies and fair winds forever, Mike!
I remember Mike coming into my office on many occasions and telling me wild eyed stories of his past. A very interesting life indeed! A wonderfully friendly man.
Lost touch with him as his visits tapered off over the years. I still have one of his music discs and will listen to it again.
I knew Mike a bit from helping him publish a sailing book a few years back. Asked to refer to me as “Tiger” as he thought my username sounded like a callsign, which from then on was what he always called me. We talked aviation quite a bit, and sometimes cars.
One of the more memorable things I do recall is him reviewing something sci-fi project I was working on. We had a laugh about his outlook on next-generation air vehicles/spacecraft, which proved to be an interesting conversation.
I didn’t stay in touch with him as I liked, and was extremely saddened when I learned about his passing. Few people give me the time of day, and Mike was one of those few who did. I will most certainly miss him.
Wow, just saw this. Going through some old paperwork and found Mike’s card for the chamber Jazz Quartet. We had some good times playing music and I am sorry to hear of his passing. I have fond memories of him.